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Getting to Europe has never been easier. You can take the train, fly or even drive.
But on a recent trip to Utrecht, the fourth biggest city in the Netherlands, we took Stena Line’s Superferry.
And it was plain sailing all the way to the Hook of Holland.
The ship leaves from Harwich International Port at about 8pm and arrives early the next morning.
The benefit of travelling overnight is that you can sleep in your own private cabin, complete with mini bar (free mini bar I might add, nice touch Stena Line), TV and en suite facilities.
An on-board cinema, restaurant and shops are also available.
Utrecht bound, we took a further two trains once we arrived, switching at Rotterdam.
I had never been to the Netherlands before and didn’t really know what to expect of Utrecht.
I discovered a beautiful city, with a canal system running through the centre, bordered by wharves, tunnels and cellars, which have undergone a major restoration in the last few decades. Today they hold businesses, shops and restaurants.
I would recommend joining the locals, who weave around the walkers and tourists in the bustling centre and rent a bike to explore the ancient city.
A highlight of my break was visiting the Dom Tower and the Dom Under exhibition, both in the heart of the city. To reach the top of the 112m high tower you must first climb 465 steps.
Being somewhat of a show-off and determined to get to the top first, I led the way in our group, but I ached for several days afterwards.
But, the trek was worth it as the panoramic view of the city and surrounding area is an amazing sight.
For those who can’t quite finish the climb, there is a viewpoint at 70m. There are also various levels in the structure to stop off at along the way, offering a history lesson of the tower, which was built in the 14th century.
Utrecht is home to the “most cheerful museum in the Netherlands”, Museum Speelklok. The exhibit – which was surprisingly good – displays delicate musical boxes, huge fairground organs and self playing pianos.
Other attractions in Utrecht include boat tours, following the Trajectum Lumen art project route, and visiting the Dick Bruna House, which is set for a major renovation in 2015 to coincide with the 60th birthday of Miffy, the artist’s most loved creation.
We also visited Kasteel de Haar , a medieval fortress set with towers, canals and drawbridges, which is about 20 minutes from the centre of Utrecht,
The castle is particularly magical over the festive season when a massive Christmas market fills the grounds and fairy lights adorn every tree.
I always judge a place’s appeal on whether I would return, and I think in this case I would definitely visit Utrecht again. It has so much to offer and I am keen to see it in the summer.
Stena Line’s Rail and Sail prices start from £45pp one way. Sailings with a car start from £59pp one way for an adult and car. Cabins (needed on overnight sailings) start from £20.50pp each way, based on two sharing. Go to www.stenaline.co.uk.
For information about what to do once you’re there, go to www.holland.com
You can only climb the Dom Tower under the supervision of a guide and reservations are recommended. Go to www.domtoren.nl.
Guided tours are available at Museum Speelklok. Go to www.museumspeelklok.nl.
